The veins and arteries of your HVAC ductwork play a critical role in ensuring your heating or cooling unit operates efficiently. Air ducts can become faulty over time and require replacement. When they’re defective, they can cause ineffective heating and cooling, bad smells, respiratory illnesses, and high energy bills. But how can you tell it’s time to replace your HVAC ductwork? Here we discuss some of the signs you need to watch out for.
Old Age
If your HVAC ductwork has lasted more than 10 years, you may want to consider replacing them. Your ductwork system experiences wear and tear over time. Duct seams, joints, and seals may weaken and eventually malfunction. It’s advisable to replace your ductwork every 10 years.
Inconsistent Temperatures
If some parts of your home are too cold or too hot, there may be a problem with your air ducts. For example, gaps and leaks in your ducts may be making it hard for your HVAC system to deliver consistent temperatures.
Odd Noises
If your ducts make strange noises while air flows through them, they may need repair or replacement. The ducts could be undersized, clogged, or have some other type of damage.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
Does your home have excessive dust, or is your family developing allergies or asthma symptoms? Your ductwork may be to blame. Gaps and holes in the ducts may allow dust, dirt, and other pollutants to get in and circulate throughout your home.
Mold
If your air vents emit a foul smell, your ductwork may have mold. If your ductwork has mold, your HVAC system will spread strange odors and mold spores throughout your house whenever the system kicks on.
Visual Signs
You may see signs of damage, such as dents and punctures in your ducts. If your ducts were installed incorrectly, you might see that they’re not sealed or aligned properly.
If you ignore these signs, you may experience more costly damage, and your HVAC system could age prematurely. If you have an issue with your HVAC ductwork or any other HVAC component in the Indianapolis area, contact Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing for assistance.
